[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 62 (Thursday, April 13, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E307-E308]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        RECOGNIZING RICH HADLEY

                                 ______
                                 

                      HON. CATHY McMORRIS RODGERS

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 13, 2023

  Mrs. RODGERS of Washington. Mr. Speaker, my heart is heavy as I rise 
today to honor

[[Page E308]]

the life of my dear friend, Rich Hadley, who passed away on March 19, 
2023. My prayers are with Rich's wife Rita, his family, and all who 
loved him as we mourn his passing.
  Rich was a trusted friend and pillar of our community. For 21 years, 
he led Greater Spokane Incorporated (GSI), the Inland Northwest's 
largest chamber of commerce. During his tenure, Rich demonstrated an 
unwavering commitment to growing jobs and business opportunities, not 
only in Spokane, but all across Eastern Washington and the Inland 
Northwest region.
  His leadership at GSI was defined by a passion to make Spokane a 
better place, and he succeeded, leaving behind a legacy that will carry 
on for years to come. Rich's visionary leadership helped champion 
Spokane's University District and Washington State University's Elson 
S. Floyd College of Medicine.
  As a former U.S. Navy air intelligence officer during the Vietnam 
War, Rich cared deeply for our men and women in uniform and our 
nation's veterans. He worked tirelessly to forge a strong relationship 
between the business community and officials at Fairchild Air Force 
Base, and he played a critical role in making Fairchild the integral 
part of Spokane's community it is today.
  Mr. Speaker, Rich Hadley was a man of integrity and high principle. 
His humility and his impact on Eastern Washington and his country will 
long be remembered. Above all, he lived an amazing life that deserves 
to be celebrated. In honor of his legacy, passion, and contributions 
that inspired so many, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing 
Rich Hadley. May God grant him eternal peace in His kingdom.

                          ____________________